Blog - unusual or exotic trees

Unusual or exotic trees : the Olive Tree.

Unusual or exotic trees : the Olive Tree.

by Lewis, 14 February, 2020, 1 comments

The olive tree [Olea europaea] , is an evergreen tree native to the mediterranean area. Indeed, it is often cited as an ‘indicator plant’ for the area. It is of major agricultural importance throughout the mediterranean basin as it is the source of olive oil. Generally, the outline of the tree is somewhat short and squat†, its height varies between 8 –15 M. The oblong/spear-shaped leaves are silvery green; the upper surface is green, whereas the lower surface is more silvery. The leaves measure between 4–10 cm in length and are between 1–3 cm in width. Olive trees can be very long lived and, as the tree ages, the trunk frequently becomes gnarled and twisted. The tree produces small, white, ‘feathery’ flowers on the previous year's growth. Read more...

Unusual or exotic trees : Mesquite.

Unusual or exotic trees : Mesquite.

by Lewis, 24 January, 2020, 2 comments

Mesquite is the name given to a number of leguminous shrubs or trees that belong to the genus Prosopis. Many of these plants are native to southern parts of the United States and Mexico, though one species is native to South America - Argentina. Generally, they are plants of very dry (arid or xeric) regions. They have the capacity to form very long, deep roots that seek water deep underground. The trees / shrubs are deciduous and their leaves are pinnate (a compound form of leaf); they are also thorny. The trees produce flowers through Spring and Summer, and the seeds (beans) form in pods. The trees can be used as a source of timber (for furniture, and in the past ship building). Read more...

Unusual or exotic trees : The Myrtle family

Unusual or exotic trees : The Myrtle family

by Lewis, 9 August, 2019, 0 comments

The myrtle family includes plants such as the bay rum tree, guava, all spice, eucalyptus and myrtle. All are woody, with evergreen leaves and produce essential oils. The Eucalypts are particularly associated with Australasia, with Eucalyptus regnans being the tallest flowering plant in the world (see featured image). However, one particular genus that has come to prominence in recent years is Leptospermum, largely due to interest in L. scoparium - the Manuka or tea tree. This grows uncultivated throughout New Zealand and south eastern Australia. The common name of tea tree comes from the practice of early Australian settlers who infused the leaves in boiling water to make a herbal tea. The honey produced from the nectar of these trees is much in demand and is being investigated for its anti-bacterial properties. Manuka honey (as it is generally referred to after the Maori name for the tea tree) Read more...

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